Evolution of cool

Saint-Denis-des-Monts, Que. — The 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander has more in common with the automaker’s current super-performing Lancer Evolution and Ralliart than it does the original that went on sale in Japan nearly a decade ago.

A facelift, more power and the availability of Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) with an active front differential (AFD) are the biggest changes to Mitsubishi’s popular compact SUV that is essentially the same vehicle that arrived here in 2007. Canada gets three trims—ES, LS and XLS—and four drivetrain configurations.

The ES comes in FWD and 4WD setups with a 168-hp 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine developing 167 lb.-ft. of torque through a continuously variable transmission. A 230-hp three-litre V6 is standard on the two remaining AWD-only trims. Each benefits from a six-speed automatic transmission with Sportronic and paddle shifters. Torque is rated at 215 lb.-ft. at 3,750 rpm, good for towing up to 1,588 kg when also equipped with a larger radiator and an automatic transmission cooler. ES models can tow up to 680 kilos.

The LS and ES both get Mitsu’s standard “On-Demand” 4WD system while the award-winning S-AWC system is exclusive to the top-line XLS for a five grand premium. This is similar to the one in Lancer Ralliart models and features tarmac and snow modes, as well as a new lock mode to give the most traction on the slipperiest of slopes.

Outwardly, the Evo-style grille is the most obvious change to the exterior, but everything in front of the firewall is new, along with the headlights, side mirrors, rocker panels, rear corners and 18-inch XLS alloy wheels. Exterior dimensions are unchanged.

Besides its good looks, the Outlander oozes functionality. Case in point is the clamshell-style tailgate, which partly folds down like a pickup truck to make loading cargo objects more easily, with an up-swinging hatch that offers shelter and access in tighter confines.

With just enough headroom for the average Joe, the reclining 60/40 second row seats can flip forward and slide ahead and is sufficiently comfortable for at least two. The LS and XLS models have a third row of seats that stow beneath the rear cargo floor. ES models get extra storage space there instead.

Standard safety on all Outlanders includes front, side and curtain airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, ABS and active stability control (ASC).

The interior is much improved with fewer hard plastic surfaces and synthetic leather with contrast stitching. ES 4WD and LS models get high-grade seat fabric while genuine leather is standard on the XLS.

Useful technologies available on the 2010 Outlander include Bluetooth, Navigation system with 10 GB music server, FAST-key entry, HID headlamps (XLS only) and a Rockford Fosgate audio system with satellite radio. Intelligent windshield washers, illuminated vanity mirrors and hill start/descent assist (on 4WD models) are other new features.

A “Sun & Sound” package includes a 710-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system and upgraded security system with motion detector. A “Navigation and Entertainment” pack is also available should entertaining passengers be a priority.

The sticker price on a fully-loaded XLS is now pushing forty grand, but it’s still competitive. The S-AWC provides gobs of traction with the TCS on—it’s pretty transparent too—and it accelerates to pass competently.

The steering has just the right amount of feel, or play for this type of vehicle and body roll is well in check, though it’s not totally absent either. My only qualm is the cabin is a bit noisy at highway speed.

All in all, the 2010 Outlander is full of Mitsubishi’s best DNA. Chock full of improvements and new features, this version is by far the best one yet. And, kudos for making one of the coolest-looking crossovers on the road even cooler.